How Vitamin C supports an active lifestyle

Vitamin C (also called ascorbic acid) is among the best known vitamins. It is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It is involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, normal function of the immune system, healing processes, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. Moreover, Vitamin C supports physical performance. It contributes to the proper functioning of energy metabolism and helps reduce fatigue.

Benefits of vitamin C

High levels of vitamin C are maintained in cells and tissues and are highest in leukocytes (white blood cells), eyes, adrenal glands, pituitary gland and brain.

Unlike some animal organisms, the human body cannot produce vitamin C so it needs to be provided as part of a healthy and balanced diet. The most common sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables (especially citrus fruits). However, it is worth remembering that vitamin C is the most fragile of all vitamins and prolonged storage or cooking can damage it. Heat, exposure to air and its solubility in water are the conditions that can reduce the content of vitamin C in food. For example the content of fruit rich in vitamin C can be halved in 24 hours due to unfavorable conditions. That is why it is recommended to eat raw fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin C.

Food rich in vitamin C:

Fruits (guava, blackcurrant, lemon, strawberry, oranges, kiwi),
Vegetables (peppers, spinach, lamb’s lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli),
Muesli and fortified breakfast cereals.

It is interesting to know that Berocca^® supplement tablets contain as much vitamin C as 9 oranges. Daily consumption of Berocca^® should meet all your vitamin C requirements to keep your body and mind healthy.

Quote – Vitamin C supplements can help lower the damaging effects of oxidative stress

There may be some people who are particularly at risk of vitamin C deficiency. People with active lifestyles should provide their bodies with sufficient amounts of vitamins B and C for optimal physical and mental performance. Missing vitamin C and B9 can cause fatigue. Studies have shown that athletes who regularly take vitamin C supplements had less muscle soreness, better muscle function and lower blood levels of the oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These last two (oxidative stress and inflammation) have been linked to many chronic illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes.

Other effects of vitamin C deficiency:

The lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy.
Insufficient intake of vitamin C can affect your daily performance.
Efficiency at work can also be affected. Vitamin C deficiency can cause fatigue and poor mood. This chronic tiredness and irritability can lower your performance at work.

Oxidative damage and the resultant inflammatory changes are now known to lie at the root of most common chronic conditions in humans, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Vitamin C supplements can help lower the damaging effects of oxidative stress.